Where Collectors, Creators & Crystals Meet: London Gem & Mineral Show 2025 Review

The London Gem & Mineral Show returned this year in its impressive new forever home: the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre. The venue could not have been better suited—purpose‑built, modern, bright and spacious, and exceptionally easy to access whether travelling by car, rail, or air. With acres of free parking and wide walkways, Farnborough delivered exactly what a show with international ambition needs. It felt like a genuine step toward the event’s long‑stated goal of becoming the UK’s equivalent of Tucson or Sainte‑Marie‑aux‑Mines.

This year’s show was extremely well attended, drawing a diverse mix of visitors. Serious mineral collectors mixed comfortably with gemstone specialists, jewellery buyers, crystal enthusiasts, and those seeking a more spiritual or metaphysical connection with natural materials. The atmosphere was vibrant yet professional—evidence that the UK community is broadening while also deepening in expertise.

The main sponsor, Mayfair Gems, brought a strong presence and a beautifully curated showcase. Their contribution set a high standard for the show, adding glamour and polish.

Among the stand‑out exhibitors were the Opal Whisperers, whose extraordinary opal art pieces drew continuous crowds. Their combination of fine cutting, colour play, and imaginative design made their display one of the weekend’s most photographed.

Equally captivating was the work of Chris Duque‑Smith, whose artistic mineral pieces continue to redefine the boundary between natural specimen and fine art. Chris was also the only exhibitor at the show offering crocoite from the famous Red Lead Mine—an exciting and rare opportunity for collectors.

Gems of East Africa delivered another highlight with their unique cat’s eye opals—each one a spectacular example of rarity, movement, and colour. For many visitors, these were among the finest gemstones of the entire event.  If I could have brought two things home with me from the event these would have been it!

Earth Rise Crystals enjoyed a constant stream of visitors throughout the weekend. Their exceptional polished pieces offered something for collectors at every level—from elegant aesthetic minerals to pieces aimed at more serious connoisseurs. They also added a welcome community touch by giving away mini crystal bags to children, helping inspire the next generation of enthusiasts.

Agate Bands also impressed with their superior and finely curated collection of mineral specimens, with particularly strong offerings from Bulgaria and Morocco. Their stand was a magnet for serious collectors seeking high‑quality, well‑sourced material.

At the high‑end of the spectrum, Fossil Atelier showcased British fossils that felt as much like sculpture as natural history. Their specimens demonstrated the aesthetic potential of UK palaeontology, reinforcing that fossils can occupy the same artistic space as fine minerals and gemstones.

Precious Gems Himalayas impressed visitors with his extraordinary actinolites from India. Towering, dramatically terminated and full of life, these green giants became a talking point for anyone drawn to bold statement minerals.

A major positive development for the UK collecting scene was the presence of UK NXT GEN Mineral Collectors, a dynamic and forward‑thinking organisation aimed at encouraging young adults (18–45) to get involved in mineral collecting. While open to all ages, their Instagram‑forward, community‑centred approach clearly resonates with younger collectors. Their energy and inclusivity are exactly what the UK hobby needs, and their presence at the show signals a promising future for the next generation of mineral enthusiasts.

The dedicated demonstration area was another standout success. Visitors enjoyed a strong programme of lapidary demonstrations, with world leader Justin Prim drawing particularly enthusiastic crowds. His cutting expertise and teaching style added real educational value and showcased the craft behind gem transformation at the highest level.

Overall, the 2025 show felt like a breakthrough moment. The combination of a world‑class venue, exceptional exhibitors, varied audiences, and a strong educational programme proves that the UK is well on its way to owning a show capable of standing proudly alongside the great international mineral events.